Professional Documents
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Operators Manual
Revision C1
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 : Safety Information .......................................................................................................................................1-1
Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................................................................1-2
Assembly, installation and commissioning...............................................................................................................1-2
Use for the intended purpose and application..........................................................................................................1-2
Who is allowed to operate the system?....................................................................................................................1-2
Reconstructions and modifications...........................................................................................................................1-3
Limits of the obligation to instructions and training ..................................................................................................1-3
How to switch on and off the system safely .............................................................................................................1-4
Chapter 6 : Maintenance................................................................................................................................................6-1
Figures
Figure 2-1: The Burst Test ........................................................................................................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2: The Pressure Loss test.............................................................................................................. 2-3
Figure 2-3: The Creep Test.......................................................................................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-4: The Creep to Fail Test ............................................................................................................... 2-5
Figure 3-1: Lippke 4500 Front Panel ........................................................................................................... 3-1
Figure 3-2: The Back of the Lippke 4500 ..................................................................................................... 3-2
Figure 3-3: Closed Package Fixture............................................................................................................. 3-3
Figure 3-4: Needle Type 1B ......................................................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-5: Needle Type 2B ......................................................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-6: Needle Type 3B ......................................................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-7: Septa black 3 mm ...................................................................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-8: Septa grey 1 mm ....................................................................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-9: Construction of filter................................................................................................................... 3-6
Figure 3-10: Tube Adapter with tube ........................................................................................................... 3-6
Figure 3-11: ASTM Restraining Plate .......................................................................................................... 3-7
Figure 3-12: Simple tube adapter ................................................................................................................ 3-7
Figure 3-13: PPC 300 II ............................................................................................................................... 3-8
Figure 3-14: Intravenous Bag Adapter ......................................................................................................... 3-8
Tables
Table 3-1: Front Panel Controls ................................................................................................................... 3-1
Table 3-2: Electrical Connections ................................................................................................................ 3-2
Table 3-3: Pneumatic Connections .............................................................................................................. 3-2
Table 7-1: System Errors ............................................................................................................................. 7-1
Table 7-2: Interface Errors ........................................................................................................................... 7-1
Table 8-1: Dimensions and Weights ............................................................................................................ 8-1
Table 9-1: Spare parts ................................................................................................................................. 9-1
Table 11-1: Parameters Hagen-Poiseuille ................................................................................................. 11-2
This operators manual must be read, understood and observed before commissioning the system.
If one of the following safety instructions is not or only partially observed, MOCON Inc. or Paul
Lippke Handels-GmbH can assume no responsibility for any consequential damages, defects or the
reliability of the test system.
We proceed on the assumption that the operator will use this test system carefully and sensibly.
You must not continue system operation if any system malfunctions occur.
The test system must not be modified with regard to its construction and design without prior
consultation of the manufacturer.
Please make sure that the test system is connected only to the mains power supply specified on the
nameplate.
Please make sure that the compressed air supply does not exceed the maximum supply pressure
specification.
Please provide sufficient air circulation and install the test system with a sufficient distance from
other objects.
Never clean the test system with any liquids if it is connected to the mains socket-outlet.
Disconnect the test system from the mains line and remove the compressed air supply before
opening the front or rear panel.
Maintenance should be performed by qualified personnel. If you have any questions, feel free to
contact MOCONs technical service department in the USA. We want you to receive the best in
product support services.
Important note, may lead to malfunction or damage of test system if not observed
Safety Instructions
The Lippke Package Test System 4500 was built according to the state of the art and all valid regulations
and engineering rules. However, this system can be dangerous for persons and objects if the following
regulations are not observed:
- The system must be used only for the intended purpose and application
For this reason, any person dealing with the operation, maintenance and repair of the vacuum-leak test
system has to read and observe the safety regulations.
Any other use or application is considered as non-compliant and can result in dangers to persons or device
damage.
For safety reasons, no unauthorized modifications on the system are permitted. Original parts and
accessories were designed specifically for this system. We emphasize that parts not delivered by us and
optional extras are not approved and released by us. Mounting and/or using such products can also affect
active and/or passive safety. The manufacturer cannot be held responsible for damages caused by using
other parts or options other than the original parts or options.
However, there are limits to the manufacturer's obligation to training and instructions.
Any person using machines or other technical equipment is obliged to inform himself about how he can use
this machine or equipment safely and according to applicable regulations.
Therefore, the user has certain obligations of application. In other words, we took the user's care and
attention for granted when we prepared this operating manual.
From this, it follows that we are not obliged to point out what is "general knowledge from experience".
This device built by the PAUL LIPPKE HANDELS-GMBH was designed according to the state of the art and
all valid and applicable regulations and according to standard engineering rules.
Only employees who were instructed and trained on the system itself can switch on and off the system
safely. Moreover, they must have been instructed properly with regard to:
- functions
- dangers
- safety measures
in order to make sure that they switch on and off this system safely.
Chapter 2: Introduction
System Overview
The Lippke 4500 is an integrated package test system that measures the seal strength and integrity of
flexible, rigid or semi-rigid packages. The seal strength and integrity of the package is measured by inflating
the package using compressed air.
The system consists of a console and one or more package fixtures. The entry, selection and management
of all test parameters can be easily and quickly accomplished using the simple controls on the instrument
front panel. Multiple test configurations can easily be created and recalled using alphanumeric names.
A package fixture is used to connect the pneumatic controls and pressure sensors in the system console to
the package. Fixtures are available for testing the most commonly used types of packages. There are a
variety of fixture types are available for closed packages, open packages, screw top tubes and IV bags.
The system is shipped with a Closed Package fixture. The closed package fixture is used for testing
packages that are sealed on all sides. The closed package fixture consists of an adjustable stand and a
needle head used to pierce the package. Several types of needles and septa are available to meet most of
the common testing requirements. To perform restrained tests on closed packages, compliant with ASTM
F2054, an optional Restraining Plate fixture is available.
To test packages, bags or pouches that are open on one side an Open Package fixture is required. The
optional PPC 300 II Automatic Package Clamp is available for performing bust tests on most types of open
packages. The PPC 300 comes equipped with an integral restraining plate system.
Test Capabilities
The 4500 Package Test System can perform a variety of seal strength and package integrity tests. Three
types of Seal Strength and two Integrity tests can be performed individually or in combination.
When the Hole Size option has been purchased, a Leak Rate (ASTM F2095) and theoretical Hole Size will
be reported for each Pressure Loss/Leak Test.
When the Multi-Test option has been purchased, the following tests can be performed:
Creep Test
Creep-to-Fail Test
Combined Creep & Burst
Combined Creep & Leak
Combined Creep & Leak & Burst
For more detailed information on each of these tests see the appropriate sections later in this chapter.
Burst Test
Also called Seal Strength Test. The package is connected to the instrument via a PPC or needle (or the
ASTM Compliant Restraining Plate) and the package seal strength is determined by increasing the pressure
in the package until it bursts. If the preset maximum pressure is reached, the test will stop. The Burst Test is
compliant with ASTM F2054.
Caution: In a burst test, the package will typically burst. This may lead to
considerable noise. Suitable hearing protection should be worn.
Note: When testing filled packages, precautions may be necessary to insure that
the product does not contaminate the operator or the system. Depending on
the package contents, the use of safety glasses may be advisable. A
protective hood placed over the package may offer additional protection.
P
Upper Limit
Burst
Lower Limit
Prefilling
Press re
t
Figure 2-1: The Burst Test
The results are:
Caution: If the package did not burst, it is still under pressure! Remove the
package carefully; a sudden pressure drop will occur when it is removed.
When the Hole Size option has been purchased, this information can be used to calculate a Leak Rate and
aggregate Hole Size. The Pressure Loss and Leak Rate calculations are compliant to ASTM F2095.
Caution: It is possible that the package will burst in this test mode. Please note
that the pressure may not drop to a low level immediately after the test.
Test pressure
P
Pressure loss
Pass/Fail Limit
Compensation
t
Test Time
Creep Test
The Creep Test is used to evaluate the seals on a package. It is a Pass/Fail test. A Creep Test increases
the pressure in the package to a
specified value (approximately 80% of the burst pressure) and maintains it for a specified time period. The
package passes if it does not burst during the test. The Creep Test is compliant with ASTM F1140.
Caution: This test may cause the package to burst. Please note that the
pressure may not drop to a low level immediately after the test.
Note: When testing filled packages, precautions may be necessary to insure that
the product does not contaminate the operator or the system. Depending
on the package contents, the use of safety glasses may be advisable. A
protective hood placed over the package may offer additional protection.
Test pressure
P
t
Test Time
Caution: This test may cause the package to burst. Please note that the pressure
may not drop to a low level immediately after the test.
Note: When testing filled packages, precautions may be necessary to insure that
the product does not contaminate the operator or the system. Depending on
the package contents, the use of safety glasses may be advisable. A
protective hood placed over the package may offer additional protection.
The test is performed in the same way as the creep test. In addition to Pass or Fail the test result contains
the Time to Failure or a NO BURST if the package did not burst.
Test pressure
P
Lower limit
Upper limit
t
Maximum test time
Combined Testing
When the Multi-Test option has been purchased, the Creep, Leak and Burst tests (described previously)
can be combined in various ways and performed as a single test. The results of each individual test will be
reported at the end of the test sequence. Combined testing can simplify operator setup and reduce the
number test samples required.
The Combined Testing Option allows the following combined tests to be performed.
Control Description
Power This LED is illuminated when the instrument is turned on.
RxD This LED is illuminated when the instrument is receiving data from the computer.
TxD This LED is illuminated when the instrument is transmitting data to the computer.
Connector Description
Power Input The power input module contains the connector for the power cord, the fuse
Module holder and the Power ON/OFF switch
PC / Printer: The PC/Printer port is a RS-232 port for connection to a printer or computer.
The Accessory Port is used to connect accessories, such as a foot switch,
Accessory Port:
to the instrument console.
Connector Description
The compressed air supply to the instrument console is connected to this port.
Air Supply
The supply pressure must not exceed 8 Bar (116 psig).
Feed The Feed line to the Package Fixture is connected to this port.
Sense The Sense line from the package fixture is connected to this port.
The Clamp output is used to operate optional devices that are not available for
Clamp
the Lippke 4500 system you have purchased.
To test fully sealed (closed) rigid and semi rigid packages a Closed Package fixture is used. The system is
shipped with a closed package fixture. The fixture consists of an adjustable stand and a Needle Head. A
variety of needles, septa and filters are available to insure that the suitable connection is made to the
package and the sensor is protected from dust.
The needles
The Needle Head on the closed package fixture contains a removable needle. The needle is used to pierce
the package so compressed air can be introduced into the package to perform the test. Two different styles
of needles are available, the mono needles (type 1B and type 2B) and the double needle type 3B.
The Mono needle is suitable for almost all packages. There is less danger of the measuring needle
becoming clogged by the product, since only one needle is used for air supply and pressure measurement.
Piercing the package is easier using needle type 1B (see Figure 3-4) and the use of a needle type 2B (see
Figure 3-5) is recommended for flat packages in order avoid undesired damage to the underside of the
package.
When testing packages, using a Mono Needle, that result in a high flow into the package a significant
pressure differential may occur across the needle. This effect occurs most often with packages made of
materials permeable to air, like sterile paper, Tyvek, etc. The effect may also occur when a high Pressure
Rate setting is used. The Type 3B double needle (see Figure 3-6), uses separate needles for the sense and
feed lines to reduce this effect. An O-ring inside the needle head provides the sealing of both air channels.
The Septa
In order to ensure a linear pressure increase in the package and to avoid unnecessarily high consumption
of air it may be necessary to seal the point at which the package is pierced with a septum. The septum also
protects the packaging material from tearing at the puncture point. When testing flat packages, the black
septum is recommended. The thickness of the rubber material (3 mm), allows the flat needle head type 1B
to be used. This needle head provides good sealing without requiring penetration of the needle tip into the
interior of the package.
For small-sized packages that will deform under pressure in the area the package is pierced the grey
septum is recommended. This septum is only 1mm thick and is very flexible.
When performing burst tests it is often not necessary to seal the package with a septum at the puncture
point. If an excessive amount of air escapes during measurement, a septum (with adhesive side to the
needle) can be helpful.
When choosing the puncture point on the package, avoid seams and areas with adhesive. The package
should be pierced in the middle, if possible, in order to ensure that the package will inflate evenly. This is
important, because the needle must lie evenly and tightly on the package. The test head will lift as the
volume of package increases, this will be compensated for by movement of the needle head
The Filter
When testing packages filled with powder or liquid substances, it is highly recommended that the optional
filter be used. If the filter is not used product may contaminate the system causing damage to the
instrument. The filter is installed between the test head and the needle head (see Figure 3-9)
O-Ring O-Ring
Remove the needle and screw the foam filter element with a foam filter to the test head. Then attach the
small filter tube to the filter and then the needle head. For the positions of the individual O-rings please see
Figure 3-9.
The Tube Adapter is used to allow tubes with threaded closures to be tested. Figure 3-10 illustrates how
this type package is attached to the adapter.
Restrained tests compliant with ASTM F2054 can be performed using the Closed Package fixture and the
ASTM Compliant Restraining Plate fixture.
This is a simple tube adapter for basic package testing. Caution: the septa are different for the package
holding device
Open packages and pouches can be tested using the PPC 300 II Automatic Package Clamp fixture (see
Figure 3-13). The fixture seals the open side of the package, enabling a burst test to be performed
according to the ASTM F1140 standard. The fixture also contains an integral restraining plate system.
This is an adapter IV-Bags to be connected to the instrument. The conical shape of the adapter allows for
easy connection to the bag.
Note: Please read the following instructions before beginning the installation
Unpacking
The components for your Lippke 4500 Package Test System may be shipped in one or more cartons
depending on the options that were ordered. To insure you have everything use the Accessories Checklist
as you unpack the components.
If any components are missing or damaged, please call MOCON Technical Services in the USA at (763)
493-7250.
Electrical Requirements
Note: Connection to a electrical power supply different than indicated on the label
can lead to device damage.
The system requires an electrical supply between 110-230 VAC at a frequency of 50/60 Hz (other versions
on request). Please keep in mind that large electrical machines operating close to the system can cause
voltage fluctuations that may produce inaccurate test results or result in damage to the instrument. When in
doubt, connect a line filter ahead of the instrument.
Environmental Requirements
Do not install the system close to heat sources. Protect the system from direct sunlight, formation of dust,
vibrations, liquids and extreme humidity. It is important to meet the following limits:
Condition Limit
Ambient temperature +5 500C (+40 ... 1050F)
Relative humidity 0 ... 90% non-condensing
Note: Operating the test system outside the above-specified limits may lead to
malfunctions and device damage.
Note: Operation to within specification is not guaranteed if the Air Supply pressure
is below the specified minimum input pressure.
The compressed air supply must be dry, clean and free from oil. The input pressure must be between 4 and
8 bar (58 to 116 psi). The input pressure must be at least 1 bar (14.5 psi) above measurement pressure. A
separate pressure regulator is recommended.
We recommend a compressed air quality compliant with DIN ISO 8573 Class 2. If the air quality is not
known, it is recommended be conditioned using of a filter/dryer combination (5 and 0.1) that contains a
regenerative cartridge (e.g. Zander Min-DRY MDK and KT 2016). This will provide precise measuring
results and trouble-free operation of the entire pneumatic system. Air consumption depends on size,
stability and porosity of packages and number of measurements.
System Set Up
All electrical and pneumatic connections are on the back of instrument (see also Figure 3-2).
1. Place the system console and package fixture on a clean flat work surface of sufficient area
for the type of packages to be tested.
2. Connect air pressure supply to the "Air Supply" port.
3. Connect sensor line, the smaller tube, from needle head or PPC to the Sense port.
4. Connect feed line, the larger tube, from needle head or PPC to the Feed port.
5. Connect a power cable to the power inlet connector on the console.
6. Connect the power cable to a suitable power source.
7. If a printer is provided unpack it set it up using the provided instructions.
8. Connect one end of the interface cable to "PC/Printer" port.
9. Connect the other end of the interface cable to a Communication Port on the PC.
Note: Check to insure that all hoses are firmly and tightly connected. Please use
the union nuts provided with the system. This will help insure that all the
connections are safe secure and leak free.
An electronic copy of the Help system document is included on the installation CD and is installed on the
computer when the application is set up.
To start the software application select Lippke Package Test System 4500 from the Start Menu. A User
Name and Password are required to access to the PPG application. Select the appropriate name by
opening the User name list box. The default Password for the Administrator user is admin.
Chapter 6: Maintenance
The LIPPKE Package Test system 4500 control unit is maintenance-free. This particularly applies to
pneumatic system and electronic control system.
After switching off the system, you can clean its outside surface using a moist cloth if it becomes necessary.
Please always make sure that the holding stand is clean. For this purpose, screw off the needle head from
time to time and check whether the needle is completely clean. The same applies to both openings on the
test head (air supply and pressure sensor opening). Solid residues can be removed carefully by means of a
needle. Liquids should be best blown out. Flushing with water and alcohol is also possible. After that, all
hoses should be blown out thoroughly (apply compressed air to all hose connections) to make sure that no
liquids remain in the holding stand.
Corresponding measures may be taken for the optional filter between test head and needle head. The filter
foam material should be replaced at regular intervals or if it is soiled.
For cleaning the hoses, it is recommended to just blow through them using compressed air.
The O-rings on the needle head guarantee tightness and functioning of the system and must therefore be
replaced periodically. Applying some silicone grease on the O-rings may prolong their service life and
durability and may increase system tightness.
It is recommended to have the system checked by a MOCON technician every year. During such an
inspection all functions (especially control valve and system tightness) as well as the pressure sensors
calibration will be checked. Please contact the MOCON Technical Services group for more information.
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting
The following list of possible error causes and their remedies is not necessarily complete. Should your
system display any errors not mentioned, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be glad to help you in
any way.
System Errors
Symptom Cause Solution
No display after switching - Loose power cable - Check the connection.
on control unit - Defective fuse - Replace the 1 A fuse.
- Call MOCON
Interface Errors
For clarity, the following error causes are explained for a printer, but they also apply to the PC. Please
observe that all errors are output just once, i.e., the output cannot be repeated.
Either the compressed air supply of the system is interrupted or the supply pressure is not high enough if
the package internal pressure is adjusting on a constant level during a running measurement.
After bursting of a package, the system should terminate the measurement automatically. However, if a very
high value was selected for the Auto-Stop Threshold, it is possible that the test will not terminate
automatically. The Auto-Stop Threshold value should be reduced.
The following is a symptom of a clogged needle: the package is not inflated fully even though a pressure
rise is displayed. In this situation, abort the measurement by pressing the STOP key and clean the needle
(see Chapter 8).
If you have noticed that pressure loss is far too high for one package, this may have the following causes:
Porous O-Ring
Languages: German
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mocon
7500 Boone Avenue North
EFFECTIVE DATE: June 28, 2007
1. Units or systems with MOCON offered field training, either purchased as an option or included in the purchase price.
One year from date of shipment from MOCONs factory if field training is performed by MOCON personnel or
certified representatives.
Ninety days from date of shipment from MOCONs factory if field training is not purchased.
One year from date of shipment from MOCONs factory if an extended warranty is purchased as an option or
included in the purchase price (not available on all instruments).
3. Spare parts, repairs and accessories when purchased separately and not a part of a new instrument order.
4. This warranty covers normal use only. It does not cover damage that results from alteration, accident, misuse, abuse,
neglect, or failure to follow assembly, installation, operational, or other MOCON instruction.
5. All warranty repair items are to be shipped at purchasers expense, to and from MOCON.
6. THE FOREGOING SHALL CONSTITUTE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY PURCHASE OF
MOCON PRODUCTS, AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY,
WHICH ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED AND EXCLUDED BY MOCON, INCLUDING WITH LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND USE AND ALL
OBLIGATIONS AND LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF MOCON FOR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN
CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF REPAIR OR PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT. IN NO EVENT SHALL
MOCON BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR FOR ANY
DELAY IN THE PERFORMANCE BY MOCON OF ANY OF ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE FIELD SERVICE
AGREEMENT OR THIS WARRANTY DUE TO CAUSES BEYOND ITS CONTROL.
7. In no event shall MOCON be liable for any damages in excess of the price paid for software including, but not limited
to, direct, consequential (including, without limitation, lost profits), special, exemplary, incidental and indirect damages,
arising out of or in connection with the use, the results or the inability to use the software, and imposed under any
cause of action whatsoever, including contract, warranty, strict liability, or negligence, even if MOCON has been
notified of the possibility of such damages.
MOCON software is provided as is and MOCON makes no warranty as to the software. MOCON DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, RELATED
TOTHE SOFTWARE, ITS USE OR ANY INABILITY TO USE IT, AND THE RESULTS OF ITS USE.
P/N 032-846
mocon
7500 Boone Avenue North
EFFECTIVE: JANUARY 6, 1998
1. PART REPLACEMENT
If a defective part can be located, a free replacement part can be shipped collect to the customer for installation by in-
house repair personnel. This is the fastest and least expensive way to get the equipment operating again.
P/N 032-847A
mocon
7500 Boone Avenue North
EFFECTIVE DATE: January 6, 2001
MOCON offers a complete range of service options to purchasers of MOCON instrumentation and systems.
4. PART REPLACEMENT
If the customer can identify a defective part, a replacement can be shipped F.O.B. MOCON factory to the customer for
installation by in-house repair personnel. Charges will include the cost of the parts plus shipping. This is the fastest and the
least expensive way to get the equipment operating again.
5. RETURN UNIT TO MOCON
If replacing the part appears to be beyond the capability of the Customers in-house personnel, the instrument may be
shipped back to the MOCON factory in Minneapolis, Minnesota for repairs. The Customer is responsible for the cost of
round trip freight and insurance, and will be billed for parts and labor required accomplishing the repair.
6. SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE
If malfunction is considered by MOCON to be an emergency, a MOCON service representative will be dispatched from
MOCON to visit the Customers facility to correct the problem. The charges for this service include out-of-pocket travel
expenses including portal-to-portal travel time at prevailing labor rates, parts used, and labor at the prevailing labor rates to
repair the equipment.
Please refer to the latest version of MOCONs Warranty Policy sheet for warranty information.
P(atm) V (cm 3 )
Q( sccs) =
t ( s)
To give an example: A package with a Volume of one liter (1000 cm) is tested for 30 seconds and is losing
10 mbar (= 9.87E-03 atm) in that time. A leak rate of 0.329 sccs is calculated:
To convert the leak rate from sccs to mbar*cm / s, please multiply by 1.01325
This leak rate is used to calculate the theoretical hole size as described on page 11-2 of this chapter.
The effective (aggregate) Hole Size is derived using Hagen-Poiseuilles law as follows:
r 4 ( P1 P2 )
Q=
8nl ( l >>r / tube)
The pressure in the package is changing during the test, so we set the differential pressure to P1-P2 and:
P
P1 P2 = ( P )
2
This results in:
Q 8 n l
r=
P
(P
4
)
2
The diameter of the hole reduces to:
m Q 8 n l
d = 2 1000
cm 4 ( P P )
2
MOCON, Inc. Revision C 11-2